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Khushab, situated in the heart of Punjab, Pakistan, occupies a unique geographic position within the broader Indus Plain. Located at 32.2986°N, 72.3508°E, the city rests on relatively flat terrain, characteristic of the region, at an elevation of approximately 200 meters above sea level. This low-lying landscape contributes to the potential for temperature inversions, trapping pollutants close to the ground. The surrounding landscape is predominantly agricultural, with extensive wheat, cotton, and sugarcane fields dominating the rural areas immediately bordering the urban centre. The Jhelum River flows nearby, though its distance mitigates direct influence on local humidity but doesn’t prevent the transport of airborne particles. Khushab isn’t a major industrial hub, but smaller-scale brick kilns and agricultural processing contribute to particulate matter emissions. The urban-rural gradient is fairly sharp; the city itself is a relatively compact settlement, quickly transitioning to farmland. This proximity to agricultural practices introduces seasonal burning of crop residue, a significant localised source of air pollution. The prevailing wind patterns, generally from the northwest during cooler months and shifting to the southeast during the monsoon, play a crucial role in dispersing – or concentrating – pollutants depending on the season and meteorological conditions. The city’s location within a broad valley further influences air circulation.

Khushab experiences a distinct seasonal air quality pattern. Autumn (October-November) and winter (December-February) represent the most challenging periods. Cooler temperatures lead to increased reliance on biomass burning for heating, coupled with temperature inversions that trap pollutants. Fog, common during these months, exacerbates particulate matter concentrations, reducing visibility and impacting respiratory health. Spring (March-May) sees a gradual improvement as temperatures rise and wind patterns shift, but pre-monsoon dust storms can temporarily elevate particulate matter. The monsoon season (June-September) generally offers the cleanest air, as rainfall effectively washes away pollutants and increased humidity suppresses dust. However, increased cloud cover can also contribute to temperature inversions. Sensitive groups – children, the elderly, and those with pre-existing respiratory conditions – should limit outdoor activity during the autumn and winter months. During spring, monitoring dust storm warnings is advisable. The monsoon provides the most favourable conditions for outdoor exercise, but awareness of potential localised flooding is important. Avoiding peak traffic hours, regardless of the season, can also minimise exposure to vehicle emissions. The dry, windy conditions of late spring can also stir up agricultural dust.